A large panel system (LPS) property is a home built with big prefabricated concrete panels, often after the Second World War. These homes helped meet housing needs quickly but are now classed as non-standard construction. Many mortgage lenders treat them differently from traditional brick houses.
Read more about non-standard construction mortgages to understand why a special approach may be needed.
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate some buy to let mortgages.
The article is updated as of Sept 26, 2025
How We Work
1: We contact you and take down your details, income outgoings, name, address etc.
2: We will research the whole market and email you a detailed quote as well as a list of documents to proceed.
3: You upload the documents and information needed via our channel our online portal.
What Is a Large Panel System Mortgage
A large panel system mortgage is a home loan designed for buyers of LPS properties. Because the walls and structure are built from large concrete panels joined together, some lenders see higher risks of structural movement or weather damage.
This means extra checks and sometimes stricter loan terms compared with a standard house.
Challenges and Lender Rules
Structural Integrity
Lenders often ask for detailed surveys to show that the panels and joints are safe. A structural engineer or a RICS Level 3 survey is common.
Insurance and Repairs
Home insurance can cost more or need extra documents. If the home has been repaired under an approved scheme, proof such as a PRC repair certificate helps.
Deposit and Loan-to-Value
Many lenders ask for a larger deposit than on a brick house. Loan-to-value (LTV) limits can be lower.
Valuation and Eligibility
Surveyors check if the property can be sold again easily. Only homes that meet these checks are usually accepted.
How To Improve Your Chances of Approval
Choose the right survey: Ask for a full structural or RICS Level 3 report.
- Prepare documents early: Gather repair certificates, building control approvals and planning permissions.
- Save a larger deposit: A bigger deposit can reduce the lender’s risk.
- Show strong credit history: Keep other debts low and make all payments on time.
- Use a specialist broker: A broker familiar with LPS rules can help find suitable lenders and speed up the process.
LPS Mortgage at a Glance
How We Work
1: We contact you and take down your details, income outgoings, name, address etc.
2: We will research the whole market and email you a detailed quote as well as a list of documents to proceed.
3: You upload the documents and information needed via our channel our online portal.
LPS Mortgage at a Glance
LPS Mortgage at a Glance
| Topic | What it means for LPS homes | What a buyer can do |
|---|---|---|
| Construction type | Large prefabricated concrete panels joined on site; classed as non-standard construction by many lenders. | Provide construction details, age, and any builder documentation to the adviser and lender. |
| Survey level | Often requires a detailed assessment such as a RICS Level 3 survey or a structural engineer report. | Book a full structural survey early and share the report with the lender and insurer. |
| Deposit and LTV | Lenders may ask for a larger deposit and set a lower maximum loan-to-value. | Save a larger deposit and check affordability; consider improving credit conduct before applying. |
| Repair certificates | Approved repairs (for example PRC-type schemes) with valid certificates can improve lender confidence. | Keep all repair certificates, building control approvals, and guarantees ready to upload. |
| Insurance availability | Some insurers treat LPS as higher risk, which can affect price and cover terms. | Contact specialist insurers in advance and obtain indicative terms to support the application. |
| Typical timescales | Extra checks and reports can add weeks to the process compared with standard construction homes. | Start early, respond quickly to document requests, and work with a broker familiar with LPS criteria. |
How We Can Help?
We offers whole-of-market mortgage advice for buyers of LPS and other non-standard properties. The team compares lenders, checks live criteria and helps with underwriter questions. This support can save time and reduce stress during the mortgage process.
You can also explore related guides such as mortgage for prefab concrete house, Reema construction mortgage, and self-build mortgages.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a buyer get a buy-to-let mortgage on an LPS home?
Yes, some lenders may consider it, but criteria are often stricter and a larger deposit may be required.
Will approved structural repairs and a valid certificate improve lender confidence?
Yes. Certificates from recognised repair schemes can make approval more likely.
What deposit might be needed on an LPS purchase?
This varies, but many lenders ask for a larger deposit than for a traditional brick home.
Are valuations and surveys different for LPS homes?
Yes. Lenders usually insist on detailed structural or RICS Level 3 surveys.
Can an LPS property become mortgageable after repairs?
Often yes, if a recognised structural repair scheme is completed and certified.
Conclusion and Call to Action
Buying a large panel system property can be a good choice if the home is sound and well maintained. A specialist mortgage and the right advice help make the process smoother.
Contact our team for a free, no-obligation chat about finding the right large panel system mortgage.
Important Disclaimer
Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.
The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate some buy to let mortgages.
About The Author
Damian is an experienced mortgage broker, founder of NeedingAdvice.co.uk Ltd and company director. With over a decade working as a mortgage broker he has a strong understanding of hard to place mortgage cases. With hundreds of 5 star client reviews. hundreds of repeat clients his work speaks for himself.
He started NeedingAdvice.co.uk as a one man band with the philosophy of putting clients needs ahead of his own. This ethos of offering excellent customer service has helped the business grow over the years. He gets satisfaction on getting cases pushed through to offer stage where other mortgage broker and companies have failed.
Throughout his time as an adviser he has carved out a niche area of advice helping clients with their business protection requirements too. Having helped hundreds of client with Relevant Life Policies, Shareholder Protection Insurance, Keyperson Policies and other important protection requirements of large to small businesses.
At home he is a family man and likes to spend his time with his four children and wife Lisa. He enjoys going on holidays spending time with friends and going for walks.
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